Animal Profiles
Insects

Leaf insect

Phylliidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Leaf insects are masters of camouflage. This account follows the insect named Phyllium bioculatum in the cited university source, which describes its leaflike form and feeding.

Phyllium bioculatum, the representative described in this account.

Phyllium bioculatum, the representative described in this account.

At a glance

Location
The cited account discusses an Asian leaf insect under a historical scientific name.
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Leaves provide food; the university account describes feeding reared insects with fresh guava foliage.

Classification

Common name
Leaf insect
Browse group
Insects
Scientific name or taxon
Phylliidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Phasmida
Family
Phylliidae
Source classification
Insecta

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • Its body resembles a green leaf.
  • Veinlike markings strengthen the disguise.
  • It is a plant eater.

Habitat and range

The cited account discusses an Asian leaf insect under a historical scientific name. These notes concern that treatment rather than assigning every leaf-insect species the same geographical range.

Appearance and adaptations

A flattened green body has brownish edges and veinlike patterns that resemble a leaf. Expanded body surfaces help disguise the animal while it remains among vegetation.

Diet and behaviour

Leaves provide food; the university account describes feeding reared insects with fresh guava foliage. The resemblance to vegetation offers concealment rather than making the insect part of the plant.

Sources

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